Bipartisan Bonding bill prioritizes roads, bridges, and clean water

The Minnesota Senate today approved a $700 million bonding package that prioritizes essential infrastructure investments while steering clear of controversial, partisan projects. The bill reflects a bipartisan effort to address urgent needs across the state with a strong emphasis on asset preservation.

A significant portion of the package — $290 million — is dedicated to critical road improvements, bridge replacements, wastewater upgrades, and other foundational infrastructure projects.

“This bill is focused on roads, bridges, clean water, and public safety infrastructure that benefits every single Minnesotan,” said Senator Karin Housley (R-Stillwater), Republican Lead on the Capital Investment Committee. “We wanted a no-nonsense bill focused on core state support functions, and that’s exactly what we have in today’s legislation.”

Highlights of the bill include the following:

  • $42 million for the Local Road Improvement Program
  • $20 million for the Local Bridge Replacement Program with an additional $11 million for the Major Local Bridge Replacement Program
  • $5 million for Township Roads
  • $43.5 million for Clean Water Grants to address wastewater needs throughout the state
  • $43.5 million for Drinking Water Grants
  • $6 million for statewide drinking water contamination mitigation

To improve and protect public health conditions in Minnesota, the bill also includes funding for crucial lead pipe replacement projects throughout the state. Additionally, the projects being funded will create thousands of construction jobs, providing additional economic opportunity for workers throughout the state. This bill also makes Minnesota eligible for federal matching funds for a number of projects.

These investments will be critical in drawing both families and businesses to Minnesota.

Housley also praised the bipartisan effort to address long-overdue infrastructure maintenance, saying, “When we tour potential projects throughout the state, it’s clear that the needs are high. Bonding bills require bipartisan cooperation so we can serve the needs of the state. This bill is a win for every single community in the state.”